a place to share verses that encourage, challenge and inspire

eat with joy

I found this verse last year, on the last day of my fast. I wrote it in my journal along with these words: “God wants us to enjoy our food and appreciate it. Not eating for a while certainly makes you appreciate food!” I know that sounds simple, but fasting helps put food in its proper place in life — something to be enjoyed in a healthy way. Our bodies are the temples of the Holy Spirit, and taking a break from eating (or eating certain foods) causes you to notice how you are caring for your body.

Eating can be very complicated for some people. I have one dear friend who is struggling with an eating disorder and another one who is trying to lose weight. For them, food is not a source of joy, as God desires. Thankfully, there is hope for all who struggle with food issues. Embracing hope is one of the first steps to discovering how eating can be a joy.

Disclaimer: I am not recommending that anyone with an eating disorder fast or that fasting be used as a weight loss strategy. I am only recommending fasting as a spiritual discipline for healthy adults.